What does Exodus 30:17 mean?
ESV: The Lord said to Moses,
NIV: Then the Lord said to Moses,
NASB: Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying,
CSB: The Lord spoke to Moses:
NLT: Then the Lord said to Moses,
KJV: And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,
NKJV: Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying:
Verse Commentary:
Verse Context:
Exodus 30:17–21 explains how to construct a large washbasin made of bronze. This will be placed in the courtyard (Exodus 27:9) of the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9). Aaron, his sons, and all future generations of priests are to wash before performing any rituals. Ceremonial cleanness is a cornerstone aspect of the Mosaic covenant (Leviticus 10:10; Numbers 19:12).
Chapter Summary:
Items described here function with other sacred objects (Exodus 25—28) constructed for the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9). One is a small gold-lined altar for incense. The other is a large bronze basin for ceremonial washing. The last two sets of instructions are for specially formulated anointing oil and sacred incense. Israel will establish a national tax to pay for these.
Chapter Context:
Much of Exodus is a description of the tabernacle and its components (Exodus 25—28). This is the last section of new designs given in this book. God will assign craftsmen to make the sacred objects (Exodus 31). But while Moses receives these instructions, Israel slips into idolatry (Exodus 32). The last several chapters of Exodus record how God's earlier instructions were followed with precision.
Book Summary:
The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.
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